Leaking Pipes in Slab Floors

Causes

• According to Oregon State University, blocked foundation footing drains are a common cause of excess moisture inside homes. When these drains become clogged with debris, water will leak inside through the slab. Broken plumbing lines are another common cause of excess moisture. While leaking pipes cause water to come through the concrete slab, other areas around your home should be inspected for excess moisture as well. Poor final grading will cause water to run toward your home and seep inside through cracks in the foundation. If there is no vapor barrier installed beneath your concrete slab, water vapor can move through the slab in the form of condensation.

Effects

• When you have water leaking inside your home, structural damage can occur. Water stains often appear on your drywall in shades of brown or yellow. Drywall will deteriorate once it is wet, crumbling and requiring replacement. Carpet could become saturated, making replacement necessary. When you have water leaking into your home, you have a chance of mold growth. Homeowners who have mold growing inside their homes often develop symptoms such as difficulty breathing, congestion, sneezing, itching eyes and wheezing. People who have immune-mediated diseases can develop serious fungal infections of the lungs when exposed to mold spores. Mold causes building materials to degrade, making repairs necessary.

Solution

• It is difficult for most homeowners to locate and repair leaking pipes in the foundations of their homes. Oregon State University recommends testing all plumbing for leaks by running each faucet inside your home for 10 to 15 minutes. Watch and listen for water leaks during this time. Because plumbing pipes could be buried in your concrete slab or placed in hidden areas, it is usually necessary to hire a plumber for repair.

Considerations

• Once you have repaired your leaking pipes, you must inspect your home for signs of mold growth to avoid potential health problems and damage to your home's structure. Remove mold growth by scrubbing it with a stiff brush and liquid dish detergent. Once all mold is gone, rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly. Look around your home for other potential moisture problems. Plugged downspouts or clogged gutters often cause water to come inside. If the ground outside is sloped toward your home, it must be regraded to direct water away from it. Failing to regrade your lot will allow surface water to run inside your home.